Connections in the NFL are funny. Everyone seems to know everyone, at least by extension. And first meetings often seem to find a way to come full circle. Such is the case with Peyton Manning and Russell Wilson.

“Had I been able to stick with the plan that we had here, and let those young players develop the way they were developing, right now they would be a pretty good basketball team in the East,” Thomas said.

In the past week, Geno Smith took an important step. He readjusted his game, at the urging of offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg, and stopped trying to be perfect. He got back to running with the football. He played more freely.